Akureyri Cultural and Conference Centre: Northern Iceland’s Premier Event Venue

The Hof Cultural and Conference Centre, located in the heart of Akureyri, is one of northern Iceland’s most iconic and versatile venues. Serving as a cornerstone of the town’s cultural and business landscape, Hof blends modern functionality with artistic design, making it ideal for a wide variety of events—including trade shows, conferences, concerts, and exhibitions.

Facilities and Architectural Design

Opened in August 2010, Hof is celebrated for its striking circular architecture inspired by Iceland’s natural basalt columns. The design reflects the country’s dramatic geological features while creating a welcoming and functional space for both performers and event organisers.

The centre features two main auditoriums. The larger hall seats up to 500 attendees in tiered seating, perfect for major performances or conferences. The smaller auditorium offers a more intimate setting for up to 200 guests, ideal for workshops, lectures, or small exhibitions. Both spaces are fitted with advanced lighting, sound, and projection systems, ensuring a professional experience for all types of events.

Complementing the performance halls is a modern restaurant that seats around 150 guests and can be expanded for larger functions. The venue also includes various meeting rooms, exhibition areas, and a tourist information centre, making it a comprehensive destination for cultural and business engagement in Akureyri.

Major Exhibitions and Trade Shows

Though primarily a cultural venue, Hof has also emerged as an important location for regional exhibitions, trade shows, and creative industry events. Its flexible layout and strong infrastructure make it particularly well suited for showcasing Icelandic talent, innovation, and craftsmanship. Some of the major recurring events hosted at Hof include:

• Akureyri Art Summer (Listasumar)
  Held during June and July, this cultural festival features a series of concerts, art exhibitions, and live performances. Hof is a central venue for the event, offering space for visual artists, musicians, and craftspeople to present their work to the public.
• VAKA Folk Arts Festival
  Taking place in May, this unique festival gathers folk artists from across the Nordic countries and beyond. Hof becomes a focal point for concerts, traditional dance performances, handicraft exhibitions, and interactive workshops, reinforcing its role as a cultural crossroads.
• Easter Cultural Programme
  During the Easter holidays, Hof hosts a range of exhibitions, performances, and festive activities. This seasonal programme often includes music, drama, and visual art displays, making it a vibrant time for community engagement and local tourism.

Technological Enhancements

To maintain its high standard, Hof continually updates its facilities. In 2025, the venue upgraded its main auditorium with a new Martin Audio sound system, improving the overall acoustic quality and ensuring clear, balanced audio for both performers and audiences. This reflects Hof’s commitment to excellence in both cultural and professional presentations.

Conclusion

The Hof Cultural and Conference Centre in Akureyri stands as a vital institution in northern Iceland, combining aesthetic appeal with practical versatility. Its ability to host major exhibitions, trade shows, and cultural festivals makes it a dynamic space that supports both economic development and artistic expression. As Akureyri continues to grow as a regional hub, Hof remains at the forefront of the town’s social, cultural, and professional life.